Esia of 220 k v transmission lines at port qasim

K-Electric Limited
Environmental and Social Impact Assessment
of
220 kV New Grid at Port Qasim, 220 kV Transmission Lines
Looping In/Out from KDA-Pipri West Circuit-1 and 2
for feeding this Grid Station, 220 kV Double Circuit
Transmission Line from 220 kV KDA Grid to 220 New Grid
and 220 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line
from New Grid Station at Port Qasim
to 660 MW Power Station.
Final Report
October, 2015
global environmental management services
2nd
Floor, Aiwan-e-Sanat, ST-4/2, Sector 23, Korangi Industrial Area, Karachi
Ph: (92-21) 35113804-5; Fax: (92-21) 35113806; Email: info@gems-intl.com

Environmental & Social Impact Assessment for K-Electric Karachi, Sindh
GEMSESIA960815KE Executive Summary i
This report discusses the Environmental and Socio-economic Impact Assessment of
the proposed linked projects for electricity power supply infrastructure. The project
is distributed in three components which includes installation of a Grid Station and
erection of Transmission Lines.
The first component comprises of installation of a new grid station near Razaqabad
area in a semi-rural area settlement of Pir Sarhandi Goth namely new Grid Station
at Port Qasim.
The second component comprises of erection of double circuit 220 kV transmission
line from a future prospective power plant to be located at Industrial Export Zone of
Port Qasim to the above mentioned proposed Grid Station having a route length of
26 kms.
The third component comprises of erection of double circuit 220 kV transmission
line from the proposed Grid Station at Port Qasim to KDA Grid Station located in
KDA Scheme 33 having a route length of 23 kms.
The project is proposed to fulfill and enhance the electricity requirements of the city
by improvement of transmission networks.
NEED OF THE PROJECT
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has planned to establish two Nuclear
Power Plants of 1100 MW capacity each on Karachi coast by subcontracting a
Chinese Company. One of the plants will be constructed at the Industrial Export
Zone of Port Qasim, where after its initiating operation, it is planned that power will
be sublet to K-Electric. Since there is a constant need to fulfill the energy gap of the
city and decrease energy loss, a grid station will be installed of 220 kV capacity at
Pir Sirhandi Goth and a 220 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line will be erected
from the Power Station for feeding this Grid Station. It will be an added benefit in
provision of electric supply in the existing network of the city.
PROPONENT INTRODUCTION
K-Electric, commonly referred to as KE is a Pakistani
vertically integrated electric company involved in
generating, transmitting and distributing power to over
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

GEMSESIA960815KE Executive Summary ii
2.5 million customers in Karachi and in the nearby towns of Dhabeji and Gharo in
Sindh, and Hub, Uthal, Vinder and Bela in Balochistan. It employs over 10,000
people and covers 6,500 square kilometers with industrial, commercial,
agricultural and residential areas falling under its network. K-Electric has its own
generation capacity of 1,652 MW, predominantly from its major Thermal Power
Plants (BQPS I, BQPS II and KPC) and two Gas Engines Power Plants (SITE &
Korangi), inclusive of 450 MW that has been added owing to the initiatives of the
new management and the company inaugurated an additional 560 MW project in
2012.
K - Electric being a prestigious and environmentally conscious organization wants
to comply with all applicable laws and therefore intends to carry out the
environmental monitoring of its power plants.
PROJECT AREA
COMPONENT A (GRID STATION)
A grid station of 220 kV capacity will be installed at Pir Sirhandi Goth located near
Razaqabad town.
COMPONENT B (DOUBLE CIRCUIT TRANSMISSION LINE)
A Double circuit transmission line will be erected from the prospective nuclear
power plant to be constructed in Industrial Export Zone of Port Qasim crossing the
National Highway and leading towards the New Grid Station.
COMPONENT C (DOUBLE CIRCUIT TRANSMISSION LINE)
A Double circuit transmission line will be erected from New Grid Station and will
run parallel to an existing transmission line which leads towards the Super
Highway from the backwards of Steel town and leads towards KDA Grid Station.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The ESIA study includes three components of the transmission project which are
described in following sections.
Component A
A 220 kV Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) Grid Station is proposed to be installed in
a rural setting of Pir Sirhandi Goth near Razaqabad town located north to the
National Highway.

GEMSESIA960815KE Executive Summary iii
Component B
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) plans to develop a Nuclear Power
Plant of 660 MW at Industrial Export Zone of Port Qasim and sublet electricity to
K-Electric. A Double Circuit 220 kV transmission line will be erected from the same
site and lead towards the New Proposed Grid Station which will be of 26 kms;
 It will initiate from the power station and lead towards the Ghaghar Phatak
Railway Station.
 Diverting slightly it will move parallel to the National Highway and enter the
backside of Steel town area.
 Mostly vacant and barren, the line will move directly towards the Grid
Station.
Component C
A Double Circuit 220 kV transmission line will be erected from the New Grid
Station till KDA Grid Station which will be of 23 kms;
 It will initiate from the New Grid Station and move parallel north to the
existing KDA – Pipri West Circuit.
 The line will cross the Malir River bed and move further north and reach the
Super Highway.
 It will be erected further upwards towards the elevated barren areas of the
Gadap town and brought back down toward the KDA Grid Station.
LEGISLATIVE REQUIREMENT
The ESIA of the proposed K-Electric Project activity will be subjected to the
pertinent legislative and regulatory requirements of the Government of Sindh
including State laws. Legislation presents a synopsis of environmental policies,
legislation and other guidelines that have relevance to the proposed project.
The proposed project falls under the project category of SCHEDULE II
“Transmission lines (11kV and above) and distribution projects” as per the guidelines
issued by the Environmental Protection Agency - Sindh (SEPA) under the Sindh
Environmental Protection Act 2014 (SEPA 2014).
According to these guidelines, projects under this category require an EIA to be
conducted. The Sindh Environmental Protection Act, 2014 (SEPA 2014) is the basic
legislative tool empowering the provincial government to frame regulations for the
protection of the environment. The SEPA 2014 is broadly applicable to air, water,
soil, marine and noise pollution. Penalties have been prescribed for those
contravening the provisions of the Act.

GEMSESIA960815KE Executive Summary iv
The two primary deliberations of the Act are the conduct of projects only after
approval of environmental assessments from the relevant EPA and adherence with
National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS).
Under section 17 of SEPA 2014, No proponent of a project shall commence
construction or operation unless he has filed with the EPA an IEE or EIA, and has
obtained from the EPA approval in respect thereof.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
The project area lies under two of the largest towns of Karachi city in terms of cover
area. However, the cover is mostly semi-rural and semi-urban. The area is now
been focused towards more developmental projects in future. At present, the
transmission line route is mostly barren and inhabited.
BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
Data for the ESIA was gathered from both primary and secondary sources. Baseline
field survey was conducted in January 2015. No endangered or threatened species
were found to be existent within the project areas. Since the areas represent semi-
rural environment and within the city premises, minimal floral habitat was found
that may need special attention, the project will be carefully executed to eliminate
unnecessary damage to vegetation.
SOCIOECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT
The transmission line will initiate from the site of proposed power plant near Port
Qasim till new proposed grid station in Pir Sarhandi Goth. The prominent places
and landmarks near the proposed transmission line in Bin Qasim Town are
Pakistan Steel Mills, Textile Institute of Pakistan, Malir Housing Authority,
Gulshan-e-Hadeed, Pak Steel Town and major industrial units like Fauji Fertilizer
Bin Qasim Limited, Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited and Gandhara Nissan
Limited in the area near Port Qasim.
The new grid station will be constructed in Pir Sarhandi Goth which is situated in
Gadap Town. After looping out from the new grid station at Pir Sarhandi Goth, the
transmission line will run parallel to the old circuit of Pipri-KDA and will loop in
KDA Grid Station for further distribution. The prominent places near the project
areas in Gadap Town are Soomar Jhokio Goth, Pir Sarhandi Goth, Haji Sheedi
Goth, Murad Memon Goth, Dumba Goth, Baqai Dental College, Al Sajjad
Restaurant, Gulshan e Mehran, Usman City, Kathore, Sabzi Mandi and Gulshane
Mymar etc. (near KDA Grid Station).
Since the area is mostly under developed, the residents comprise of lower class that
rely on daily wager jobs by commuting to the central city to fulfill their basic needs.

GEMSESIA960815KE Executive Summary v
They have utilized their lands for farming and live a simple lifestyle that lack health
and other essential facilities. Thereby they look forward for a safe and a better way
of living.
IMPACT ASSESSMENT & MITIGATIONS
The transmission line and grid station is not an air, water polluting and resource
intensive sector. However, there can be considerable environmental impacts during
the initial construction phase mainly due to civil works such as site preparation,
construction of access roads, vehicle movement etc. Construction phase impacts
are usually temporary and localized phenomenon, except the permanent changes
that may occur in the local landscape and land use patterns along the Right-of–
Way. However, these impacts are given due consideration, wherever applicable.
The operational phase has minor environmental and health impacts. This may
include electrical hazards due to meteorological conditions and generation of EMF.
These can be mitigated by or minimized by proper vigilance. The mitigations for
these impacts are summarized in the Environmental Management Plan.
CONCLUSION
The ESIA of the proposed grid station and transmission lines project has achieved
the following goals:
 Identification of national and provincial environmental regulatory
requirements that apply to the proposed project activities;
 Identification of the environmental features of the project area including the
physical, biological and social disturbance and likely impact of the project on
the environment;
 Recommendation of appropriate mitigation measures that K-Electric will
incorporate and ensure as per this ESIA into the project to minimize the
adverse environmental impacts.
"If the activities are undertaken as proposed and described in this report, and
the recommended mitigation measures and environmental management plan
is adopted, the project will not result in any long-term or significant impacts
on the local community or the physical and biological environment of the
project area rather it will prove to be beneficial in many ways and contribute
to development in Karachi.”

Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for K-Electric Karachi, Sindh
GEMSESIA010315KE Executive Summary viii
Environmental Management Plan
Aspect Impact Mitigation
Monitoring
Parameter
Location
Frequency of
Monitoring
Responsibility
Air Chronic health effects
Reduced visibility on
roads
Sprinkling of water
Tuning of construction
vehicles & machines
Dust masks for laborers
Monitoring of vehicular
emission
Monitoring of Ambient Air
Particulate Matter
Smoke
CO
SOx
NOx
All project
locations Monthly
Contractor
K-Electric
Noise Stress
Hypertension
Hearing loss
Headache
Avoid working at night
Lubrication of
construction vehicles
Ear plugs
Monitoring of Ambient
Noise
Monitoring of noise (near
construction machinery)
Noise levels
Project
location close
to residential
areas
Monthly
Contractor
K-Electric
Land and soil Soil erosion on barren
access routes
Water sprinkling and
develop gravel path if
required
Surface topography
All project
locations
Continuous
Contractor
K-Electric
Vegetation No cutting of trees is
involved
In case of cutting of trees,
one plant should be
replaced by 1:3 for
immature plants and 1:6
for mature plants
No of trees cleared
or cut Ensure re-
plantation by
appropriate tree
compensation ratio
of same species
All project
locations
Continuous K-Electric

GEMSESIA010315KE Executive Summary ix
Monitoring
Parameter
Location
Frequency of
Monitoring
Responsibility
Water Wastage and misuse of
water
Avoid un necessary use of
water
Prevent leakages
Record log of water
usage
All project
locations
Continuous Contractor
Social
Environment
Disturbance to routine
activities
Conflicts between
laborers and local
communities
Specify time scale for
construction activities
Discussion with local
people regarding conflicts
if any
Review of complaint
register
Local Consultations
All project
locations
Monthly K-Electric
Roads and
networks
Traffic congestion
leading to accidents
Diversion routes must be
notified to maintain traffic
flow
Signs and reflectors must
be boarded for driver’s
visibility at night
Signs and detours
are being followed
Intersections
of diversions
Monthly Contractor

GEMSESIA010315KE Executive Summary x
Monitoring
Parameter
Location
Frequency of
Monitoring
Responsibility
Health and
Safety
Lack of awareness
among general public
about safety may lead
to accidents
Incompetent and
untrained workers
might cause harm to
themselves and others
Construction works
may include many
risks and hazards that
may lead to injuries or
even death
Safety symbols and
instructions will be
boarded at work sites
Trained personnel will be
appointed for the specific
work
Appropriate PPEs must be
used for technical work
Record of Safety
Talks
Record of safety
Incidents (Major &
Minor)
Record of PPEs
Visual Assessments
On all project
sites
Monthly Contractor
K-Electric
Operational Phase
Meteorologic
al conditions
(Heavy
rainfalls,
strong winds
etc.)
Accidents
 Electrocution
 Injuries
In case of breakage,
ensure emergency
shutdown of transmission
line
Immediately repair the
damage and ensure Log-
Off-Tag-Off (LOTO)
Implement HSE &
Emergency Response
Plans
HSE Inspection
Reports
All project
components
Grids
Biannually
K-Electric

GEMSESIA010315KE Executive Summary xi
Monitoring
Parameter
Location
Frequency of
Monitoring
Responsibility
Electric
Magnetic
Field (EMF)
Human health impacts
such as,
neuropsychological
disorders or
cardiovascular diseases
Appropriate cabling with
protective shields to
suppress electron flux
EMF Intensity
Neighboring
communities
near the
corridor
Biannually
K-Electric
Sulfur
Hexafluoride
Gas (SF6)
Leakage in confined
areas presents risk of
asphyxia, since it
reduces oxygen content
SF6 has a Global
Warming Potential of
23900 higher than CO2
Equipments containing
SF6 will go through
constant mechanical
damage checks
Ventilation of SF6
containing equipment’s
compartments will be
made mandatory
Gas recovery kits will be
used when maintenance
or filling will be done
Equipment quality
SF6
SF6 Gas
containing
equipment’s
compartments
SF6 Detectors
Ventilation ducts
operation
Regularly
Transformer
Oil spillage
Contamination of soil
and water bodies
Regular checking of
storage tanks and
machines
Soil sampling for oil
and grease
Grid station Bi annually K-Electric

LIST OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND 1-1
1.2 PROPONENT INTRODUCTION 1-1
1.3 NEED OF THE PROJECT 1-2
1.4 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY 1-2
1.5 PROJECT AREA 1-3
1.6 SCOPE OF THE ESIA 1-3
1.7 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY 1-3
1.7.1 Scoping 1-3
1.7.2 Baseline Studies 1-4
1.7.3 Public Consultation 1-4
1.7.4 Impact Assessment 1-5
1.7.5 Documentation 1-5
2.0 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
2.1 PROJECT SITE LOCATIONS 2-5
2.2 PROJECT SCHEDULE 2-8
2.3 GRID STATION 2-8
2.3.1 Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) 2-8
2.4 OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION LINE 2-10
2.4.1 Retaining Walls 2-10
2.4.2 Construction of Foundation Wall 2-10
2.4.3 Erection of tower 2-10
2.4.4 Conductors 2-11
2.4.5 Grounding Wire 2-11
2.4.6 Insulators 2-11
2.4.7 Power Line Drop Point (PLDP) 2-11
2.5 UNDERGROUND TRANSMISSION LINE 2-13
2.5.1 Types of Under Ground Transmission cables: 2-13
2.5.2 Construction of Underground Transmission 2-14
2.6 HSEQ POLICY 2-14

3.0 INSTITUTIONAL, LEGISLATION AND POLICY
FRAMEWORK
3.1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, LEGISLATION AND
GUIDELINES 3-1
3.1.1 National Conservation Strategy (NCS) 3-1
3.1.2 Sindh Environmental Protection Act 2014 3-2
3.1.3 Approval from Sindh Environment Protection Agency 2-3
3.1.4 Sindh Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE
and EIA Regulations, 2014 3-4
3.1.5 The National Environmental Quality Standards 3-4
3.1.6 Land Acquisition Act, 1894 3-5
3.1.7 Pakistan Penal Code (1860) 3-5
3.1.8 The Antiquities Act, 1975 3-5
3.1.9 The Factories Act, 1934 3-5
3.1.10 Electricity Act, 1910 3-5
3.1.11 Hazardous Waste 3-6
3.1.12 Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1972 3-6
3.1.13 Sindh Forest Act (1927) 3-6
3.1.14 Cutting of Trees (Prohibition) Act, 1975 3-7
3.1.15 Explosives Act, 1884 3-7
3.1.16 Highways Safety Ordinance, 2000 3-7
3.2 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES OR
STANDARDS 3-7
3.2.1 The Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures,
1997 3-7
3.2.2 World Bank Guidelines on Environment 3-7
3.2.3 OSHA Standards Health Safety 3-8
4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE:
4.1 TOPOGRAPHY AND LAND USE 4-1
4.2 GEOLOGY 4-4
4.3 CLIMATE 4-5
4.4 RAINFALL 4-6
4.5 RELATIVE HUMIDITY 4-7
4.6 WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION 4-7
4.7 WATER RESOURCES 4-9
4.7.1 Surface Water Resources 4-9
4.7.2 Groundwater Resources 4-11
4.8 AMBIENT AIR & NOISE QUALITY 4-12
4.9 EARTHQUAKES 4-13
4.9.1 Tsunamis 4-15
4.9.2 Tropical Storms and Cyclones 4-15

5.0 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE:
5.1 HABITATION 5-1
5.2 FLORA OF THE PROJECT AREA 5-2
5.2.1 List of identified floral species 5-2
5.2.2 Sampling Methodology 5-3
5.3 FAUNA 5-7
5.3.1 Avifauna 5-7
5.3.2 Sampling methodology 5-7
5.3.3 Mammals 5-9
5.3.4 Sampling Methodology 5-9
5.3.5 Herpito fauna of the Project area 5-10
6.0 SOCIO-ECONOMIC CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT
6.1 SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY 6-1
6.1.1 Tools for Data Collection 6-1
6.2 PROJECT LOCATION AND ADMINISTRATIVE SETUP 6-2
6.3 ENTRY AND EXIT POINT 6-2
6.4 DEMOGRAPHICS 6-3
6.5 NETWORKING AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES 6-3
6.6 LEADERSHIP DYNAMICS 6-4
6.7 LIVELIHOOD 6-4
6.8 DRINKING WATER 6-5
6.9 EDUCATION 6-6
6.10 HEALTH 6-7
6.11 CULTURE, ETHNICITY AND RELIGION 6-8
6.12 RECREATIONAL AREAS 6-9
6.13 DAILY ROUTINE OF WOMEN 6-10
7.0 STAKEHOLDER CONSULTATION
7.1 INTRODUCTION 7-1
7.2 PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF STAKEHOLDER
CONSULTATION 7-1
7.3 PROCESS 7-2
7.3.1 Community Views 7-2
7.4 GENERAL STAKEHOLDERS 7-3
7.4.1 Pakistan Steel Mill 7-3
7.4.2 DMC Malir Karachi (Executive Engineer) 7-4
7.4.3 TRAFFIC POLICE (ZONE-05 National Highway) 7-4
7.4.4 Shah Latif Town Police Station 7-5
7.5 ADMINISTRATIVE STAKEHOLDERS 7-5
8.0 ALTERNATIVES
8.1 NO PROJECT ALTERNATIVES 8-1
8.2 ALTERNATIVE ROUTES 8-1
8.3 ALTERNATIVE TECHNOLOGIES 8-2

9.0 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT &
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
9.1 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ASSESSMENT 9-1
9.1.1 Impact on Physical Resources 9-2
9.1.2 Impact on Environmental Resources 9-2
9.1.3 Impact on Ecological Resources 9-5
9.1.4 Impact on Human Environment 9-7
9.1.5 Waste Disposal 9-10
9.1.6 Environmental impacts associated with
operational stage 9-12
9.2 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN 9-13
10.0 CONCLUSION
ANNEXURE
1- TECHNICAL PROVISION
2- HSEQ POLICY
3- TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT PLAN
4- WASTE MANAGEMENT PLAN

LIST OF EXHIBIT
Chapter: 2 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Exhibit 2.1: Transmission Line Network maps 2-3
Chapter: 3 INSTITUTIONAL, LEGISLATION AND POLICY
FRAMEWORK
Exhibit 3.1: NEQS for Municipal and Industrial Effluents 3-9
Exhibit 3.2:
NEQS for Selected Gaseous Pollutants from Industrial
Sources
3-11
Exhibit 3.3: NEQS for Motor Vehicle Exhaust and Noise 3-13
Exhibit 3.4: NEQS for Noise 3-13
Chapter: 4 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE: PHYSICAL
ENVIRONMENT
Exhibit 4.1: Land Elevation of the project area 4-3
Exhibit 4.2:
Mean Maximum and Minimum Temperature of the
project area 4-5
Exhibit 4.3: Maximum Precipitation (%) 4-6
Exhibit 4.4: Relative Humidity 4-7
Exhibit 4.5: Average Wind Speed and Wind Directions 4-8
Exhibit 4.6: Ground water quality test report 4-11
Exhibit 4.7: Air and Noise Sampling Plan 4-12
Exhibits 4.8: Air and Noise Quality Monitoring Results 4-13
Exhibits 4.9: Karachi lies on Seismic Zone II & III 4-14
Exhibits 4.10: Tectonics Plates/Seismic Zoning Map of Pakistan 4-15

Chapter: 5 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE: BIOLOGICAL
ENVIRONMENT
Exhibit 5.1: Summary of Biodiversity of the project area 5-1
Exhibit 5.2: Avifauna (Birds) of the project area 5-7
Exhibit 5.3: Pictorial Profile of Avifauna of the project area 5-8
Exhibit 5.4: List of Identified Mammals of the Project Area 5-9
Exhibit 5.5: Pictorial profile of Mammalian fauna 5-10
Exhibit 5.6: Reptiles of the project area 5-10
Chapter: 6 SOCIO-ECONOMIC & CULTURAL ENVIRONMENT
Exhibit 6.1: Socioeconomic Features of the Project Area 6-11
Chapter: 9 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT &
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
Exhibit 9.1: Environmental Impact Mitigation Plan 9-14
Exhibit 9.2: Environmental Mitigation Plan 9-28

GEMSESIA960815KE Introduction 1-1
1.1 BACKGROUND
This report discusses the Environmental and Socio-economic Impact Assessment of
the proposed Grid Station and Transmission Lines project of K-Electric at Port
Qasim area of Karachi. The project is divided in three components:
The first component comprises of installation of a new grid station near Razaqabad
area in a semi-rural area settlement of Pir Sarhandi Goth namely New Grid Station
at Port Qasim.
The second component comprises of erection of double circuit 220 kV transmission
line from a future prospective power plant to be located at Industrial Export Zone of
Port Qasim to the above mentioned proposed Grid Station having a route length of
26 kms.
The third component comprises of erection of double circuit 220 kV transmission
line from the proposed Grid Station at Port Qasim to KDA Grid Station located in
KDA Scheme 33 having a route length of 23 kms.
The project is expected to fulfill and enhance the electricity requirements of the city
by improving K-Electric’s existing transmission network.
The proposed project falls under the project category of Schedule II “Transmission
Lines (11 kV and above) and distribution projects” as per the guidelines issued by
the Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) under the Sindh Environmental
Protection Act 2014 (SEPA 2014). According to these guidelines, projects under this
category require an EIA to be conducted.
1.2 PROPONENT INTRODUCTION
K-Electric, commonly referred to as KE is a Pakistani
vertically integrated electric company involved in
generating, transmitting and distributing power to over
2.5 million customers in Karachi and in the nearby towns
of Dhabeji and Gharo in Sindh, and Hub, Uthal, Vinder
and Bela in Balochistan. It employs over 10,000 people
and covers 6,500 square kilometers with industrial,
commercial, agricultural and residential areas falling under its network. K-Electric
has its own generation capacity of 1,652 MW, predominantly from its major
INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER
1

Thermal Power Plants (BQPS I, BQPS II and KPC) and two Gas Engines Power
Plants (SITE & Korangi), inclusive of 450 MW that has been added owing to the
initiatives of the new management and the company inaugurated an additional 560
MW project in 2012.
K - Electric being a prestigious and environmentally conscious organization wants
to comply with all applicable laws and therefore intends to carry out the
environmental monitoring of its power plants.
1.3 NEED OF THE PROJECT
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) has planned to establish two Nuclear
Power Plants of 1100 MW capacity each on Karachi coast by subcontracting a
Chinese company. One of the plants will be constructed at the Industrial Export
Zone of Port Qasim, where after its initiating operation, it is planned that power will
be sublet to K-Electric. Since there is a constant need to fulfill the energy gap of the
city and decrease energy loss, a grid station will be installed of 220 kV capacity at
Pir Sirhandi Goth and a 220 kV Double Circuit Transmission Line will be erected
from the power station for feeding this grid station. It will be an added benefit in
provision of electric supply in the existing network of the city.
1.4 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
Purpose of this ESIA study is to evaluate the proposed extension project activities
against Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) standards, and
against international environmental guidelines, such as those of the World Bank.
The specific objectives of this ESIA are to:
• Assess the existing environmental conditions in the project area, including the
identification of environmentally sensitive areas and receptors;
• Assess the various activities to identify their potential impacts on environment,
evaluate these impacts, and determine their significance;
• Propose appropriate mitigation measures that can be incorporated into the
rehabilitation plans of the project to minimize damaging effects or lasting
negative consequences identified by the environmental assessment;
• Assess the proposed activities and determine whether they comply with the
relevant environmental regulations in Pakistan;
• Prepare an ESIA report for submission to the Sindh Environmental Protection
Agency (SEPA).

1.5 PROJECT AREA
COMPONENT A (Grid Station) a grid station of 220 kV capacity will be installed at
Pir Sirhandi Goth located near Razaqabad town.
COMPONENT B (Double Circuit Transmission Line) A Double circuit
transmission line will be erected from the prospective nuclear power plant to be
constructed in Industrial Export Zone of Port Qasim crossing the National Highway
and leading towards the New Grid Station.
COMPONENT C (Double Circuit Transmission Line) A Double circuit
transmission line will be erected from New Grid Station and will run parallel to an
existing transmission line which leads towards the Super Highway from the
backwards of Steel town and leads towards KDA Grid Station.
1.6 SCOPE OF THE ESIA
For the ESIA study, the scope of work is as under:
• Description of physical, environmental, socio-economical and cultural
conditions in the project area;
• Project impact identification, prediction, and significance based on project
activities.
• Identification and assessment of the workability of mitigation measures to offset
or minimize negative project impacts on environment.
1.7 APPROACH AND METHODOLOGY
The ESIA was performed in five main phases, which are described below.
1.7.1 Scoping
The key activities of this phase included:
Project Data Compilation: A generic description of the proposed activities, within
the project area relevant to environmental assessment, was compiled with the help
of EPA Guidelines.
Literature Review: Secondary data on weather, soil, water resources, and wildlife
vegetation was reviewed and compiled.
Legislative Review: Information on relevant legislation, regulations, guidelines,
and standards was reviewed and compiled.
Identification of Potential Impacts: The information collected in the previous
steps was reviewed, and potential environmental issues were identified.

1.7.2 Baseline Studies
Following the scoping exercise, the project area was surveyed to collect primary data.
During the field visits, information was collected on ecologically important areas,
ambient air quality, surface and groundwater resources, existing infrastructure, local
communities, public services, and sites of archaeological or cultural importance. The
following specific studies were conducted as part of the ESIA.
Vegetation: A botanist conducted vegetation study, which consisted of a thorough
literature review and field data collection. As part of the vegetation study, random
sampling was conducted and the area’s floral species were documented.
Vegetation communities were identified and vegetation cover determined.
Wildlife Study: A wildlife expert has conducted wildlife study, which consist of a
thorough literature review and field data collection. During the fieldwork, the
faunal species of the area were documented. The diversity of avian, large and small
mammals, and reptile species was determined. Information was collected on the
species found in the area.
Physical Environment: Environmental Assessment Specialist conducted physical
environmental study including, ambient air, noise, water sampling, surface water
resources and the groundwater resources of the areas. Specialists also carried out
the impact of project on soil and water resources
Socioeconomic Study: Team of experts including social and gender specialist
conducted socioeconomic and cultural study in the project area.
The study team through participatory technique collected data from the men and
women of the project area, and consulted communities and local leadership. The
profile included livelihood, culture, leadership, gender issues, spiritual and
temporal leadership, demographic information based on field data and published
sources, the existing use of land resources, community structure, employment,
distribution of income, goods and services, public health, local religious and
cultural values, and local customs, aspirations, and attitudes.
1.7.3 Public Consultation
The socioeconomic and gender team also conducted a public consultation at various
locations of the project areas. Data was collected by conducting of unstructured
meetings and interviews with stakeholders. The scope of work included:
• Provision of basic information on the project to stakeholders;
• Identification of stakeholders’ concerns and apprehensions regarding the
project;
• Identification of stakeholders’ expectations of the project;
• Summarizing the process and the outcome.

1.7.4 Impact Assessment
The environmental, socioeconomic and cultural, gender and project information
collected in previous phases was used to assess the potential impacts of the
proposed activities. The issues studied included potential project impacts on:
• Groundwater and surface water quality;
• Ambient air quality;
• Ecology of the area, including flora and fauna;
• Local communities.
• Wherever possible and applicable, the discussion covers the following
aspects:
• The present baseline conditions;
• The change in environmental parameters likely to be effected by project
related activities;
• Identification of potential impacts;
• Likelihood and significance of potential impacts;
• Mitigation measures to reduce impacts to as low as possible;
• Prediction of impacts, including all long-term and short-term, direct and
indirect, and beneficial and adverse impacts;
• Evaluation of the importance or significance of impacts (The significance of
each impact has been judged on the basis of available local, national, and
international standards. Where such standards were not available, the best
practice elsewhere has been referred to);
o Implementation of mitigation measures (i.e., environmental
management);
o Determination of residual impacts;
o Identification of controls and monitoring of residual impacts.
1.7.5 Documentation
At the end of the assessment, a report will be prepared according to the relevant
guidelines of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency. This report includes
the findings of the assessment, project impacts, and mitigation measures to be
implemented during the execution of the proposed activities.
Components of this Report will be:
Chapter: 1 Introduction
Chapter: 2 Project Description

Chapter: 3 Institutional, Legislation and policy framework
Chapter: 4 Physical Environment
Chapter: 5 Biological Environment
Chapter: 6 Socio-Economic and Cultural Environment
Chapter: 7 Public Consultation
Chapter: 8 Alternatives
Chapter: 9 Environmental Impacts Assessment &
Environmental Management Plan
Chapter: 10 Conclusion

GEMSESIA960815KE Project Description 2-1
Electric power transmission is the bulk transfer of electrical energy between the
point of generation and multiple substations near a populated area or load center.
Transmission may be via overhead or underground lines, however, most
transmission is done with overhead lines because they are less costly to construct
and easier to maintain. Underground lines are generally restricted to urban areas.
A power transmission network is referred to as a “grid.” Multiple redundant lines
between points on the grid are provided so that there are a variety of routes from
any power plant to any load center. The specific routing of electricity on the grid at
any time is based on the economics of the transmission path and the cost of power.
The ESIA study includes three components of the transmission project which are
described in following sections.
Component A
A 220 kV Gas Insulated Substation (GIS) Grid Station is proposed to be installed in
a rural setting of Pir Sirhandi Goth near Razaqabad town located north to the
National Highway.
Component B
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) plans to develop a Nuclear Power
Plant of 660 MW at Industrial Export Zone of Port Qasim and sublet electricity to
K-Electric. A Double Circuit 220 kV transmission line will be erected from the same
site and lead towards the New Proposed Grid Station which will be of 26 km;
 It will initiate from the power station and lead towards the Ghaghar Phatak
Railway Station.
 Diverting slightly it will move parallel to the National Highway and enter the
backside of Steel Town area.
 Mostly vacant and barren, the line will move directly towards the Grid
Station.
Component C
A Double Circuit 220 kV transmission line will be erected from the New Grid
Station till KDA Grid Station which will be of 23 km;
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
CHAPTER
2

 It will initiate from the New Grid Station and move parallel north to the
existing KDA – Pipri West Circuit.
 The line will cross the Malir River bed and move further north and reach the
Super Highway.
 It will be erected further upwards towards the elevated barren areas of the
Gadap Town and brought back down toward the KDA Grid Station.
The Proposed Transmission line routes & Grid Stations can be seen in Exhibit 2.1.

Exhibit 2.1: Transmission Line Network maps
Transmission Line from Nuclear Power Plant to New Grid Station

Transmission Line from Proposed Grid Station to existing KDA Grid Station

2.1 PROJECT SITE LOCATIONS
Component Subject Description Coordinates View of Location
A-I
Proposed
Pir Sarhandi
Grid Station
Approx 3 km from N-5
to Pir Sarhandi GS
N 24O53’42.1”
E 67O17’43.2”
B-I
Proposed
Nuclear Power
Plant
At the edge of Port
Qasim near Russian
Beach
N 24O47’31.9”
E 67O26’19.6”

B-II
Ghaghar
Phatak
Near FFBL
N 24O50’31.8”
E 67O25’45.8”
B-III
Near Gulshan-
e-Hadid
Backside of Gulishan-e-
Hadid
N 24O51’55.3”
E 67O12’13.8”

C-I
Proposed
transmission
line route from
Pir Sarhandi
Grid towards
KDA Grid
Station
Approx 2 km from Pir
Sarhandi Grid Station
towards Malir
cantonment
N 24O55’55.8”
E 67O16’38.4”
C-II
KDA Grid
Station
Approx 5 km Malir
Cantonment to KDA
Grid Station
N 24O58’47.4”
E 67O09’35.6”

2.2 PROJECT SCHEDULE
As per bid document 18 months’ time has been given for all the transmission
package projects. This project is a part of transmission package therefore its
particular project schedule will be available after award of contract.
2.3 GRID STATION
A Grid Station (substation) is part of an electrical generation, transmission, and
distribution system. Grid stations transform voltage from high to low, or the
reverse, or perform as a buffer to provide continuous power to the consumers even
if there is a shortfall of power from the source. Electric power may flow through
several grid stations between generating plant and consumer, and its voltage may
change in several steps. A substation may include transformers to change voltage
levels between high transmission voltages and lower distribution voltages, or at the
interconnection of two different transmission voltages.
Grid stations depend upon its switchgear which can be of two types Gas Insulated
or Air Insulated. For this project Gas Insulated Substation is proposed to be
installed.
2.3.1 Gas Insulated Substation (GIS)
GIS is much more reliable, compact and maintenance free. Because of compactness
of equipment, a very small area of land and civil work is required resulting in
substantial savings and makes GIS compatible with AIS at higher voltages. They
are at present mostly used in space constraint areas.
SF-6 Sulfur hexa fluoride gas is being extensively used as a dielectric and
extinguishing arc media in the area of high voltage electrical switchgear. Each
individual item of switchgear is metal enclosed which is at earth potential.

GIS COMPRISE THE FOLLOWING MAIN EQUIPMENT:
Following are some points to explain the importance of GIS:
1. Low area requirement. Extra High Voltage (EHV) models, for example, take only
fraction of the space required as compared to conventional.
2. Environmental adaptability. GIS is suitable for installation almost anywhere: in
or out of doors, even underground; near the sea, in mountainous areas, in
regions with heavy snowfall, etc.
3. High margin safety. The high voltage conductors are securely enclosed in
grounded metal.
4. High reliability. The chemically inert SF6 enveloping the conductors and
insulators preserves them for years of trouble free operation.
5. Long maintenance intervals. SF6 gas’s arc-quenching properties reduce contact
wear. Technological advancements over the years have seen GIS continues to
grow smaller and lighter
6. Low Maintenance Cost: GIS are highly reliable and maintenance free. No
inspection is required before ten years.
7. Long Life: The operating life of GIS is 40 to 50 years compared to 25 to 30 years
of conventional outdoor grid stations.
8. Personnel Safety: GIS causes no risk of injury to operating personnel.

9. Short Circuits by Wildlife: Fully encapsulated enclosures reduce risk of outages
caused by lizards and vandalism.
10.Unbeatable Performance: Factory assembled and tested units offers unbeatable
performance in terms of reliability and continuity of power supply.
11.Unaffected by Environmental Conditions: GIS is unaffected by environmental
factors. It is most suitable for harsh environmental conditions i.e. where humid,
saline, polluted atmosphere laden with industrial exhausts prevails.
12.Economical: SF6 plants are more economical than conventional equipment
despite the higher cost of switchgear.
2.4 OVERHEAD TRANSMISSION LINE
An overhead power line is an electric
power transmission line suspended by
towers or utility poles. Since most of the
insulation is provided by air, overhead
power lines are generally considered the
lowest-cost method of transmission for
large quantities of electric energy.
Towers for support of the lines are made
of steel (either lattice structures or
tubular poles). The bare wire conductors on the line are made of aluminum (either
plain or reinforced with steel or sometimes composite materials) or Copper.
Installation of an overhead transmission lines generally involves the following
sequence of events:
2.4.1 Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are built to hold back earth which would otherwise move
downwards. The purpose is to stabilize slopes and provide useful areas at different
elevations.
2.4.2 Construction of Foundation Wall
This involves drilling large holes, which are then typically filled with concrete for
the steel structure foundation.
2.4.3 Erection of tower
Structures for overhead lines take a variety of shapes depending on the type of line.
Tubular steel poles are typically used in urban areas. High-voltage lines are often
carried on lattice-type steel towers or pylons.

2.4.4 Conductors
Suspension towers will have brackets (hangers) suitable for the attachment of
insulator strings associated with suspension conductor support assemblies and
shall be flexible on the direction of the line and rigid transverse to the line. The
angle tension and terminal towers shall have brackets suitable for the attachment
of insulator strings associated of an overhead earth wire clamp to the tower, holes
shall be provided on the earth wire peak.
2.4.5 Grounding Wire
Optical Power Ground Wire (OPGW) is an earthing wire having fiber optic cable
inside it. OPGW is primarily used by the electric utility industry, placed in the
secure topmost position of the transmission line where it “shields” the all-important
conductors from lightning. OPGW is capable of withstanding the mechanical
stresses applied to overhead cables by environmental factors such as wind and ice.
OPGW is also capable of handling electrical faults on the transmission line by
providing a path to ground without damaging the sensitive optical fibers inside the
cable.
2.4.6 Insulators
Insulators must support the conductors and withstand both the normal operating
voltage and surges due to switching and lightning. Insulators are broadly classified
as either pin-type, which support the conductor above the structure, or suspension
type, where the conductor hangs below the structure.
2.4.7 Power Line Drop Point (PLDP)
The underground and overhead transmission lines are connected through cable
sealing end at power line drop pole (PLDP).
The cable terminations would be suitable for application to single-core XLPE
underground cables as described in "Specific Works Data". The terminal of the
cable sealing end will be suitable to accommodate 300 mm² or above copper
conductors from the overhead transmission line. They would be designed to
withstand the specified short circuit current.
The outdoor type cable sealing end bases will be insulated from the structural steel
work and the cable glands of gas-immersed and oil-immersed type sealing ends
shall be insulated from the SF6 switchgear, and transformers. They will also be
suitably protected by Metal reinforced glass fibre sheet towards the lightning
arresters side against the damage due to explosion of lightning arrestor &
consequent fire.

Overhead Transmission Line process diagram
Insulators (string)
Tower Site Survey
Clearing of Right way
Foundation Concrete
Portland cement
Steel Reinforcement
Water
Proportioning,
Batching & mixing
Conveying, placing &
curing
Rock Anchor
Grillage
Under cut
Rock
Augured
Tower Tower Design
Conductors
(grounding wire)

2.5 UNDERGROUND TRANSMISSION LINE
Underground cables have different technical
requirements than overhead lines and have
different environmental impacts. Due to
their different physical, environmental, and
construction needs, underground
transmission generally costs more and may
be more complicated to construct than
overhead lines.
2.5.1 Types of Under Ground
Transmission cables:
There are two main types of underground transmission lines currently in use. One
type is constructed in a pipe with fluid or gas pumped or circulated through and
around the cable in order to manage heat and insulate the cables. The other type is
a solid dielectric cable which requires no fluids or gas and is a more recent
technological advancement. The common types of underground cable construction
include:
i. High-pressure, fluid-filled pipe (HPFF)
ii. High-pressure, gas-filled pipe (HPGF)
iii. Self-contained fluid-filled (SCFF)
iv. Solid cable, cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE)
K-E lectric will use XLPE cable type which is the abbreviated designation of “Cross
Linked Polyethylene”. Cross linked polyethylene is produced from polyethylene
under high pressure with organic peroxides as additives.

Following are some features of XLPE cables:
1. Capability of carrying large currents: The excellent resistance to thermal
deformation and the excellent ageing property permit to carry large current
under normal (90oC), emergency (130oC) or short circuit (250oC) conditions.
2. Ease of Installation: Lighter in weight and smaller radius allows ease of
installation at quicker pace.
3. Free from Limitation and Maintenance: Ease of access allows no special
consideration for route profile even; no height specific problems and no
maintenance works are required as compared to oil filled cables.
4. No metallic sheath required: Generally no metallic sheath is required
therefore no specific potential for corrosion or breakage.
2.5.2 Construction of Underground Transmission
Installation of an underground transmission cable generally involves the following
sequence of events:
Many of these activities are conducted simultaneously so as to minimize the
interference with street traffic.
2.6 HSEQ POLICY
K-Electric has a comprehensive Health, Safety and Environment policy and
protocol developed for contractors and all parties involved in construction works of
grid stations and transmission lines.
The Policy is attached as Annexure -2.
Backfilling
Laying and/or welding pipe
Duct bank and vault installation
ROW Clearing
Trenching/blasting
Cable installation
Site restoration

GEMSESIA960815KE Institutional, Legislation and Policy Framework 3-1
The ESIA of the proposed project will be subjected to the pertinent legislative and
regulatory requirements of the Government of Pakistan including State laws. This
chapter presents a synopsis of environmental policies, legislation and other
guidelines that have relevance to the proposed project.
3.1 NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY, LEGISLATION AND
GUIDELINES
The enactment of comprehensive legislation on the environment, covering multiple
areas of concern, is a relatively new and ongoing phenomenon in Pakistan.
Whereas, a basic policy and legislative framework for the protection of the
environment and overall biodiversity in the country is now in place, detailed rules,
regulations and guidelines required for the implementation of the policies and
enforcement of legislation are still in various stages of formulation and discussion.
The following section presents a brief overview of the existing national policies,
legislation and guidelines.
3.1.1 National Conservation Strategy (NCS)
The National Conservation Strategy (NCS) is the primary Policy document of the
Government of Pakistan on national environmental issues. The Policy was approved
by the Federal Cabinet in March 1992. The Strategy also attained recognition by
international donor agencies, principally the World Bank. The NCS identifies 14
core areas including conservation of biodiversity, pollution prevention and
abatement, soil and water conservation and preservation of cultural heritage and
recommends immediate attention to these core areas in order to preserve the
country’s environment.
A midterm review of the achievements of NCS in 2000 concluded that achievements
under NCS have been primarily awareness raising and institutional building rather
than actual improvement to environment and natural resources and that NCS was
not designed and is not adequately focused as a national sustainable development
strategy (GoP, November 2000). The need therefore arose for a more focused
National Environmental Action Plan (NEAP) required to bring about actual
improvements in the state of the national environment with greater emphasis on
poverty reduction and economic development in addition to environmental
sustainability.
INSTITUTIONAL, LEGISLATION
AND POLICY FRAMEWORK
CHAPTER
3

The National Environmental Action Plan was approved by the Pakistan
Environmental Protection Council under the chairmanship of the President/Chief
Executive of Pakistan in February 2001. NEAP now constitutes the national
environmental agenda and its core objective is to initiate actions that safeguard
public health, promote sustainable livelihoods, and enhance the quality of life of
the people of Pakistan.
A National Environmental Policy has been approved by the Federal Cabinet in its
meeting held during June 2005. This policy has already been endorsed by the
Pakistan Environmental Protection Council during 2004. The new policy has total
171 guidelines on sectoral and cross-sectoral issues. The objectives of new policy
include assurance of sustainable development and safeguard of the natural wealth
of country. The following are the approved Sectoral Guidelines;
 Water Supply and Management;
 Air Quality and Noise;
 Waste Management;
 Forestry;
 Biodiversity and Protected Areas;
 Climate Change and Ozone Depletion;
 Energy Efficiency and Renewable;
 Agriculture and Livestock;
 Multilateral Environmental Agreements.
3.1.2 Sindh Environmental Protection Act 2014
The Sindh Environmental Protection Act, 2014 (SEPA 2014) is the basic legislative
tool empowering the government to frame regulations for the protection of the
environment. The SEPA 2014 is broadly applicable to air, water, soil, marine and
noise pollution. Penalties have been prescribed for those contravening the
provisions of the Act.
The two primary deliberations of the Act are the conduct of projects only after
approval of environmental assessments from the Sindh EPA and adherence with
National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS).
3.1.3 Approval from Sindh Environment Protection Agency
As per the 2014 Regulations, Proponent will submit an EIA report for their project
activities to EPA Sindh (Environment Protection Agency Sindh), and seek approval
on the same from the agency. Ten hard copies and 2 soft copies of the EIA report

will be submitted to SEPA. It will then grant its decision on the EIA as per the rules
and procedures set out in the 2014 Regulations. The following rules will apply:
 A fee is payable to SEPA for review of the EIA;
 The EIA submission is to be accompanied by an application in the format
prescribed in Schedule V of the 2014 Regulations;
 SEPA is bound to conduct a preliminary scrutiny and reply within four
weeks of the submission of the report a) confirming completeness, or b)
asking for additional information, if needed;
 K-Electric will publish a public notice in any English or Urdu national
newspaper and in a local newspaper of general circulation in the area
affected by the project. The public notice will mention the following:
o The type of project;
o The location of the project;
o The name and address of the proponent;
o The places at which the EIA can be accessed;
o The date, time and place for public hearing of any comments on the
project or its EIA;
 The date set for public hearing will not be earlier than fifteen (15) days from
the date of publication of the public notice
 In the review process SEPA may consult a Committee of Experts, which
maybe constituted on the request of the DG SEPA;
 On completion of the review process, the decision of SEPA will be
communicated to the proponent in the form prescribed in Schedule V;
 Where an EIA is approved, SEPA can impose additional controls as part of
the conditions of approval;
 SEPA is required to make every effort to complete the EIA review process
within four months;
 The approval will remain valid for the project duration mentioned in the EIA
but on the condition that the project commences within a period of three
years from the date of approval. If the project is initiated after three years
from approval date, the proponent will have to apply for an extension in the
validity period. The SEPA on receiving such request grant extension (not
exceeding 3 years at a time) or require the proponent to submit a fresh EIA if
in the opinion of SEPA changes in baseline conditions or the project so
warrant;
 After receiving approval from SEPA the proponent will acknowledge
acceptance of the conditions of approval by executing an undertaking in the
form prescribed in Schedule VI of the 2014 Regulations;

 The 2014 Regulations also require proponents to obtain from SEPA, after
completion of the project, a confirmation that the requirements of the EIA
and the conditions of approval have been duly complied with;
 The SEPA in granting the confirmation of compliance may impose any
additional control regarding the environmental management of the project or
the operation, as it deems necessary.
3.1.4 Sindh Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE and EIA
Regulations, 2014
The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency Review of IEE and EIA Regulations,
2014 (The 2014 Regulations) promulgated under SEPA 2014 were enforced on
December 2014. The 2014 Regulations define the applicability and procedures for
preparation, submission and review of IEEs and EIAs. These Regulations also give
legal status to the Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures prepared by the
Sindh EPA in 2014.
The Regulation classifies projects based on expected degree of adverse
environmental impacts and lists them in two separate schedules. Schedule I lists
projects that may not have significant environmental impacts and therefore require
an IEE. Schedule II lists projects of potentially significant environmental impacts
requiring preparation of an EIA. The Regulations also require that all projects
located in environmentally sensitive areas require preparation of an EIA.
This project falls under the following category:
Schedule II (EIA):
Energy
 Transmission lines (11 KV and above) and distribution projects
3.1.5 The National Environmental Quality Standards
The NEQS promulgated under the PEPA 1997 and last revised in 2000 specify
standards for industrial and municipal effluents, gaseous emissions, vehicular
emissions, and noise levels. The PEPA 1997 empowers the EPA’s to impose
pollution charges in case of non-compliance to the NEQS.
During the construction and post development phase of the project NEQS will
apply to all effluents and emissions. NEQS for municipal and industrial effluents,
selected gaseous pollutants from industrial sources and motor vehicle exhaust and
noise are provided in Exhibit 3.1, Exhibit 3.2, Exhibit 3.3 & Exhibit 3.4. NEQS
Standards for disposal of solid waste have as yet not been promulgated.

3.1.6 Land Acquisition Act, 1894
The Land Acquisition Act (LAA) of 1894 amended from time to time has been the
defacto policy governing land acquisition, resettlement and compensation in the
country. The LAA is the most commonly used law for acquisition of land and other
properties for development projects. It comprises of 55 sections pertaining to area
notifications and surveys, acquisition, compensation and apportionment awards
and disputes resolution, penalties and exemptions.
3.1.7 Pakistan Penal Code (1860)
The Pakistan Penal Code (1860) authorizes fines, imprisonment or both for
voluntary corruption or fouling of public springs or reservoirs so as to make them
less fit for ordinary use.
3.1.8 The Antiquities Act, 1975
The Antiquities Act of 1975 ensures the protection of cultural resources of
Pakistan. The Act is designed to protect ‘antiquities’ from destruction, theft,
negligence, unlawful excavation, trade, and export. Antiquities have been defined
in the Act as ancient products of human activity, historical sites, or sites of
anthropological or cultural interest, national monuments, etc. The law prohibits
new construction in the proximity of a protected antiquity and empowers the
Government of Pakistan to prohibit excavation in any area that may contain
articles of archaeological significance.
Under the Act, the project proponents are obligated to:
 Ensure that no activity is undertaken in the proximity of a protected
antiquity;
 Report to the Department of Archeology, Government of Pakistan, any
archeological discovery made during the course of a project.
3.1.9 The Factories Act, 1934
The clauses relevant to the project are those that concern to health, safety and
welfare of workers, disposal of solid waste and effluent and damage to private and
public property. The Factories Act also provides regulation for handling and
disposal of toxic and hazardous materials.
3.1.10 Electricity Act, 1910
The Act provides a legal base for power distribution. A licensee under this Act is
enabled to operate supply of electricity. This Act obligate licensee to pay

compensation for any damages caused during the constructions and maintenance
of any power distribution facilities
3.1.11 Hazardous Waste
The Sindh Hazardous Substances Rules, 2014 are a set of rules derived from the
Sindh Environmental Act, 2014 and are first of the very specific hazardous substances
regulations brought into force in 2014 after the initial draft set of rules devised in
2003. They represent specific regulations with aspect of handling, storage and disposal
of hazardous substances and issuing an approving license to the user or facility. The
Schedule-I of the Rules enlists the hazardous substances that are under the scrutiny
of the Sindh-EPA.
Under its licensing terms, the Rules highlight particular components as follows:
 Employment of Qualified technical personnel;
 Packing and labelling;
 Conditions of Premises;
 Safety precautions;
 Trainings;
 A comprehensive safety plan;
 Waste management Plan and
 Transporting of hazardous substances.
3.1.12 Sindh Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1972
The Sindh Wildlife Ordinance 1972 empowers the government to declare certain
areas reserved for the protection of wildlife and to control activities within these
areas. It also provides protection to endangered species of wildlife. The Project area
does not lie with in or near any protected area; hence no provision of this law is
applicable.
3.1.13 Sindh Forest Act (1927)
The act empowers the provincial forest departments to declare any forest area as
reserved or protected. The Act also empowers the provincial forest departments to
prohibit the clearing of forest for cultivation, grazing, hunting, removing forest
produce; quarrying and felling, lopping and topping of trees, branches in reserved
and protected forests. The project area is located outside any reserved or protected
forest area therefore the project will not contravene with any provisions of the Act.

3.1.14 Cutting of Trees (Prohibition) Act, 1975
This Act prohibits cutting or chopping of trees without permission of the Forest
Department.
3.1.15 Explosives Act, 1884
Under the Explosives Act, 1884, the Project contractors are bound by regulations
on handling, transportation and using explosives during quarrying, blasting, and
other purposes.
3.1.16 Highways Safety Ordinance, 2000
This ordinance includes provisions for the licensing and registration of vehicles and
construction equipment; maintenance of road vehicles; traffic control, offences,
penalties and procedures; and the establishment of a police force for motorways
and national highways charged with regulating and controlling traffic on the
national highways, and keeping the highways clear of encroachments.
3.2 NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES OR
STANDARDS
3.2.1 The Pakistan Environmental Assessment Procedures, 1997
The Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency prepared the Pakistan
Environmental Assessment Procedures in 1997. They are based on much of the
existing work done by international donor agencies and Non-Governmental
Organizations (NGO’s). The package of regulations prepared by PEPA includes:
 Policy and Procedures for Filing, Review and Approval of Environmental
Assessments;
 Guidelines for the Preparation and Review of Environmental Reports;
 Guidelines for Public Consultation;
 Guidelines for Sensitive and Critical Areas; and
 Sectoral Guidelines for various types of projects.
3.2.2 World Bank Guidelines on Environment
The principal World Bank publications that contain environmental guidelines are
listed below.
 Environmental Assessment-Operational Policy 4.01. Washington, DC, USA.
World Bank 1999.

 Environmental Assessment Sourcebook, Volume I: Policies, Procedures, and
Cross-Sectoral Issues. World Bank Technical Paper Number 139,
Environment Department, the World Bank, 1991,
The above two publications provide general guidelines for the conduct of EIA’s, and
address the EIA practitioners themselves as well as project designers. While the
Sourcebook in particular has been designed with Bank projects in mind, and is
especially relevant for the impact assessment of large-scale infrastructure projects,
it contains a wealth of useful information, for environmentalists and project
proponents.
The Sourcebook identifies a number of areas of concern, which should be
addressed during impact assessment. It sets out guidelines for the determination of
impacts, provides a checklist of tools to identify possible biodiversity issues and
suggests possible mitigation measures. Possible development project impacts on
wild lands, wetlands, forests etc. are also identified and mitigation measures
suggested.
The World Bank Guidelines for noise are provided in Exhibit 3.5. The indicative
IFC guideline values applicable to sanitary wastewater discharges are shown in
Exhibit 3.6.
3.2.3 OSHA Standards Health Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) are issuing safety and
health program management guidelines for use by employers to prevent
occupational injuries and illnesses. The Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970 (OSHA) representatives have noted a strong correlation between the
application of sound management practices in the operation of safety and health
programs and a low incidence of occupational injuries and illnesses. Where
effective safety and health management is practiced, injury and illness rates are
significantly less than rates at comparable worksites where safety and health
management is weak or non-existent.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have concluded that
effective management of worker safety and health protection is a decisive factor in
reducing the extent and the severity of work-related injuries and illnesses. Effective
management addresses all work-related hazards, including those potential hazards
which could result from a change in worksite conditions or practices. It addresses
hazards whether or not they are regulated by government standards.

Exhibit: 3.1 NEQS for Municipal and Industrial Effluentsa
Parameters
Into Inland
Water(mg/l)
Into Sewage
Treatment(mg/l)
Temperature or temperature
increasec ≤3°C ≤3°C
pH 6-9 6-9
Biochemical Oxygen Demand
(BOD5) at 20oC
d 80 250
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)d
150 400
Total Suspended Solids (TSS) 200 400
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) 3,500 3,500
Grease and oil 10 10
Phenolic compounds (as phenol) 0.1 0.3
Chloride (as Cl–) 1,000 1,000
Fluoride (as F) 10 10
Total cyanide (as CN-) 1.0 1.0
An-ionic detergents (as MBAS)e 20 20
Sulphate (SO4) 600 1000
Sulphide (S-) 1.0 1.0
Ammonia (NH3) 40 40
Pesticidesf
0.15 0.15
Cadmiumg
0.1 0.1
Chromium (trivalent & hexavalent)
g
1.0 1.0
Copper
g
1.0 1.0
Leadg
0.5 0.5
Mercuryg
0.01 0.01

Parameters
Into Inland
Water(mg/l)
Into Sewage
Treatment(mg/l)
Seleniumg
0.5 0.5
Nickelg
1.0 1.0
Silverg 1.0 1.0
Total Toxic metals 2.0 2.0
Zinc 5.0 5.0
Arsenicg
1.0 1.0
Bariumg
1.5 1.5
Iron 8.0 8.0
Manganese 1.5 1.5
Borong
6.0 6.0
Chlorine 1.0 1.0
Notes
aAll values are in mg/l, unless otherwise defined
bApplicable only when and where sewage treatment is operational and BOD5=80 mg/L is achieved by
the sewage treatment system
cThe effluent should not result in temperature increase of more than 3°C at the edge of zone where
initial mixing and dilution take place in the receiving body. In case zone is defined, use 100 meters
from the point of discharge
dAssuming minimum dilution 1:10 on discharge, lower ratio would attract progressively stringent
standards to be determined by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency. By 1:10 dilution means,
for example that for each one cubic meter of treated effluent, the recipient water body should have 10
cubic meter of water for dilution of this effluent
eModified Benzene Alkyl Sulphate; assuming surfactant as biodegradable
fPesticides include herbicide, fungicides and insecticides
g Subject to the total toxic metals discharge should not exceed level of total toxic metals

Exhibit 3.2: NEQS for Selected Gaseous Pollutants from Industrial Sources a
Parameter Source of emission Standard(mg/Nm3)
Smoke Any
40% or 2 Ringlemann scale or
equivalent smoke number
Particulate matterb
Boilers and furnaces:
Oil fired 300
Coal fired 500
Cement kilns 300
Grinding, crushing,
clinker coolers and
related processes,
metallurgical
processes, converter
blast furnaces and
cupolas
500
Hydrogen chloride Any 400
Chlorine Any 150
Hydrogen fluoride Any 150
Hydrogen sulfide Any 10
Sulfur oxidesc
Sulfuric
acid/Sulfonic acid
plants
5,000
Other plants except
power plants
operating on oil and
coal
1,700
Carbon monoxide Any 800
Lead Any 50
Mercury Any 10
Cadmium Any 20
Arsenic Any 20
Copper Any 50

Parameter Source of emission Standard(mg/Nm3)
Antimony Any 20
Zinc Any 200
Oxides of nitrogend
Nitric acid
manufacturing unit
3,000
Other plants except
power plants
operating on oil or
coal:
Oil Fired 400
Coal fired 600
Cement kilns 1,200
Notes:
a All values are in mg/Nm3, unless otherwise defined
b Based on the assumption that the size of the particulates is 10 micron or more
c Based on 1% sulphur content in fuel oil. Higher content of sulphur will cause standards to be pro-
rated
d In respect of the emissions of the sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, the power plants operating on
oil or coal as fuel shall, in addition to NEQS specified above, comply with the following standards

Exhibit 3.3: NEQS for Motor Vehicle Exhaust and Noise
Parameter Standard Measuring Method
Smoke
40% or 2 on the
Ringlemann scale during
engine acceleration mode
To be compared with Ringlemann Chart
at a distance of 6 meters or more
Carbon
Monoxide
New vehicles: 4.5%
Used vehicles: 6%
Under idling conditions, non-dispersive
infrared detection through gas analyzer
Noise 75 dB (A)
Sound-meter at 7.5 meters from the
source
Exhibit 3.4: NEQS for Noise
S. no Category of Area/Zone
Effective from 1st Jan, 2013
Limits in dB
Day Time Night Time
1 Residential Area 55 45
2 Commercial Area 65 55
3 Industrial Area 75 65
4 Silence Area 50 45
Note:
1. Day Time hours: 6.00am to 10.00pm
2. Night Time hours: 10.00pm to 6.00am
3. Silence Zone: zones which are declared as such by the competent authority. An area comprising
not less than 100 meters around hospitals, educational institutions and courts.
4. Mixed categories of areas may be declared as one of the four above mentioned categories by the
competent authority.
dB: Time weighted average of the level of sound in decibels on scale A which is relatable to human
hearing.

GEMSESIA960815KE Environmental Baseline: Physical Environment 4-1
The existing physical environmental conditions of the project area are described in
this section. Much of the information on topography and land use, geophysical,
climate and water resources was gained from published literature and previously
conducted studies. The information given in the sections on air, sound and water
quality is the result of detailed field surveys conducted specifically for this ESIA.
4.1 TOPOGRAPHY AND LAND USE
Karachi is the largest and the fastest growing mega city of Pakistan with a
population of over 18 million with the annual growth of 5% (Pakistan Economic
Survey 2013-14). The city comprises of six districts namely; Karachi East, Karachi
West, Karachi Central, Karachi South, District Malir and District Korangi (KMC,
2012). However, detailed and complete picture of land use and control patterns
within the city is presented in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Land Control in Karachi (Source: Karachi strategic development plan 2020)
Note * CDGK in figure one represents cumulative land control by districts in Karachi
Moreover, the most recent data for existing land use patterns within the city is
presented below in figure 2 and the spread of land cover cluster is also available in
table 1 placed below figure 2.
ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE:
CHAPTER
4

Figure 2: Existing land use Patterns Karachi Source: Karachi strategic development plan 2020
Broad Category Area (%)
Residential 67,020 acres (7.7%)
Commercial 3,169 acres (0.364%)
Industrial 30,848 acres (3.54%)
Mixed Land Use 5,899 acres (0.677)
Goth/Villages 17,959 acres (2.062 %)
Institutional 4,553 acres (0.52%)
Religious 2,310 acres 0.52 %
Governmental 71,929 acres (8.25%)
Infrastructure 46,154 acres 5.3 %
Recreational 4,798 acres 0.55 %
Agricultural 81,179 acres 9.31%
Vacant Land Including Water Bodies 530,162 acres (60.85 %)
Restricted Area 5,188 acres 0.596%
(Source: Karachi Strategic Development Plan 2020: CDGK – 2007)

Moreover, it is important to note that the project area lies in district Malir, Gadap
town and Bin Qasim town respectively. The topography of project area is bit
different from other districts of Karachi and the project area can be broadly divided
into three topographical zones such as; the piedmont colluvial fans and peneplains
of Gadap, the plains of Gadap and the plains and platues of Malir-Liyari. The
culluvial fringe develops by merging of alluvial fans of individual streams depositing
the erspsoinal load of coarse sediments. In addition to that, it is important to note
that the city of Karachi has a long coastline in the south. The famous beaches
include Hawks Bay, Paradise Point, Sands pit etc., but the closest beach near the
project area is Russian beach.
Topographical map of the project areas is attached as Exhibits 4.1 which clearly
represents the land elevations of the project area.
Exhibit 4.1: Land Elevation of the project area
Source: en-gb.topographic-map.com

4.2 GEOLOGY
Geology of the local area is underlain a lower Indus basin described as Indus river
alluvial early Eoicene early deposition of sediments includes silt, sand stone,
conglomerate, limestone with low compact and cementing materials. Surface feature
describe as syncline delta and valley region and anticline ridges exposed. As
stratigraphic description, there are two formations Gazij and Manchar formation dip
gently northeast to southeast in
offshore (HEC).The coastal region
is found to be of tertiary and post-
tertiary origin. Blatter et al (1929)
dates it as recent as Eocene. The
region has been formed by the
upheaval of land from the Tethys
Sea, which once extended up to
the northern border of Pakistan
but, gradually withdrew with the
rising of the Himalayas. The
underlying rocks are mostly of
marine origin, highly folded,
faulted and fissured everywhere.
(Sidra et al, 2010 Situation
Analysis of Sindh Coast Issues
and Options)
The exposed geological material in
the area is generally silty sand,
sandy gravel and silty clay which is
either product of in-situ weathering
or deposited by the action of gravity
and water. Below this over burden
of silty sandy gravel soil,
alternating layer of sedimentary
rock comprising of sandstone, shell
mudstone, siltstone and limestone
are present. The rock formation of
this area is from Nari Formation of
Oligocene age and partially from
Gaj Formation of Miocene age. The Nari Formation consists mainly of sandstone,
siltstone and shale with subordinate limestone while the Gaj Formation consists of
shale with subordinate limestone. Both of these Formations were deposited in
shallow marine environment. The shallow marine dispositional conditions in
evidenced in the area by the presence of reefal limestone in different members of the
Nari and Gaj formations and by the presence of well-developed cross bedding and
ripple marks in some rocks of Nari and Gaj formation.
Figure 3: Geological Map of Pakistan (Source GSP)

During surveys the information was verified by geologists who identified the soil as
silty sand and semi hard gravel whereas at some parts of the project areas dry sand
formations were observed specially near the proposed power plant site.
4.3 CLIMATE
Shamshad (1956) has classified the climate of Pakistan based on the country’s
characteristic seasons. Taking into account topography, proximity to the sea,
rainfall, temperature, and winds, he has divided Pakistan into eleven climatic
zones. Under his scheme, the climate of the project area is classified as ‘subtropical
double season hot land.’ The characteristic features of this climatic zone are low
rainfall (less than 250 mm per annum), the absence of a well-defined rainy season,
and high temperatures that increase from east to west.
Yearly mean maximum and minimum temperatures are provided in Exhibit 4.2.
Exhibit 4.2: Mean Maximum and Minimum Temperature of the project area
Source: Jinnah International Airport

4.4 RAINFALL
The probability that precipitation will be observed at this location varies throughout
the year. Over the entire year, the most common forms of precipitation are
thunderstorms, drizzle, and moderate rain. Thunderstorms are the most severe
precipitation observed during 38% of those days with precipitation. They are most
likely around August 12, when it is observed during 12% of all days. Drizzle is the
most common precipitation observed during 34% of those days with precipitation.
It is most likely around July 30, when it is observed during 14% of all days.
Moderate rain is the most common precipitation observed during 22% of those days
with precipitation. It is most likely around July 28, when it is observed
during 8% of all days. During the warm season, which lasts from March 25 to July
13, there is a 8% average chance that precipitation will be observed at some point
during a given day. When precipitation does occur it is most often in the form of
thunderstorms (40% of days with precipitation have at worst thunderstorms),
drizzle (36%), moderate rain (19%), and light rain (5%).
During the cold season, which lasts from December 18 to February 7, there is
a 5% average chance that precipitation will be observed at some point during a
given day. When precipitation does occur it is most often in the form of
thunderstorms (43% of days with precipitation have at worst thunderstorms),
moderate rain (28%), drizzle (18%), and light rain (9%). The mean monthly
precipitation for Karachi South District can be seen in Exhibit 4.3.
Exhibit 4.3: Maximum Precipitation (%)

4.5 RELATIVE HUMIDITY
The relative humidity typically ranges from 25% (dry) to 91% (very humid) over the
course of the year, rarely dropping below 10% (very dry) and reaching as high
as 100% (very humid).
The air is driest around February 9, at which time the relative humidity drops
below 33% (comfortable) three days out of four; it is most humid around August 2,
exceeding 83% (humid) three days out of four. The mean monthly relative humidity
for Karachi South district is shown graphically in Exhibit 4.4.
Exhibit 4.4: Relative Humidity
4.6 WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION
The project area lies in region where wind blows throughout the year with highest
velocities during the summer months, when the direction is south-west to west.
During winter the wind blows from north to northeast, shifting southwest to west
in the evening hours. The wind usually carries sand and salt resulting in severe
corrosion and erosion. The wind direction and speed between the two monsoon
seasons viz. summer and winter are rather unsettled and large variations are noted
both with respect to speed and direction. Winds too, are dry and have a desiccating
effect during May & June. In July and August, winds contain moisture and have a
beneficial effect on the plant life.
Over the course of the year, typical wind speeds vary from 0 mph to 19 mph (calm
to fresh breeze), rarely exceeding 29 mph (strong breeze). The highest average wind

speed of 13 mph (moderate breeze) occurs around May 18, at which time the
average daily maximum wind speed is 18 mph (fresh breeze).
The lowest average wind speed of 5 mph (light breeze) occurs around November 16,
at which time the average daily maximum wind speed is 10 mph (gentle breeze).The
wind is most often out of the west (31% of the time) and south west (23% of the
time). The wind is least often out of the south east (1% of the time), south (2% of
the time), east (3% of the time), north west (5% of the time), and north (5% of the
time). Exhibit 4.5 shows the wind speed and direction of the project area.
Exhibit 4.5: Average Wind Speed and Wind Directions

4.7 WATER RESOURCES
This section details the water resources of the proposed project area, which lies in
district Malir. Both, surface and ground water resources have been summarized in
this section of the report. Data was obtained from secondary sources and through
field observation and data collection (ESIA field survey).
4.7.1 Surface Water Resources
There is no significant natural freshwater source in the project area. The Indus
River about 120km to the east of Karachi city and the Hub River, a perennial
stream that originates in Balochistan and marks the boundary between Karachi
Division and Balochistan are the sources of fresh water in Karachi.
The Lyari and Malir Rivers that passes through the city do not have any natural
flow, except during the monsoons. The Lyari River falls in Kemari and Malir River
falls in Gizri Creek. Malir River is ephemeral and is constituted from two major
tributaries, i.e. Mol and Khadeji as well as some minor tributaries. Khadeji is a
perennial stream that originates at Khadeji falls and gains flow as it travels across
the Malir Basin.
The current water demand
amounts to approximately 752
MGD (2005); against this demand
the capacity of the supply system
is 646 MGD, giving rise to a
shortfall of 106 MGD in bulk
supply. However, the amount of
water supplied to the consumers
by the service remains short by
about 35 percent due to losses in
transmission from leakages,
friction and large scale
unauthorized diversion or thefts.
About 60percent of the households are connected to the supply network. Under the
present conditions, water supply is irregular and inequitable. Water is supplied
only for a few hours, generally four hours daily and that too at a very low pressure.
Inequitable distribution marks the supply system as some areas receive more
water, and some too little to meet their needs. There are some areas which are not
connected to the system and get water on payment through tankers. There is also a
serious concern about water quality. The existing filtration facilities are not enough
to subject all supplies to clarifier process; about 60 percent of water is filtered and
the rest is only disinfected through chlorination. Some contamination may also
occur in transmission to the end consumers (KSDP 2020, 2007). However, the
existing water supply network is presented below in figure 4.

Figure 4: The Existing Water supply network Karachi Source: Karachi strategic development plan 2020

4.7.2 Groundwater Resources
Groundwater resources in Karachi Division are limited. The aquifers close to the
coastal belt are mostly saline and unusable for domestic purposes. The aquifers
near the Hub River bed are well developed and are source of water for agriculture
and other domestic purposes. Generally, the aquifers in the project area are
estimated to lie at depths of 50 m to 100 m. However, during the survey it was
observed that near Gadap town a few villages acquired ground water via solar and
mechanical tube wells. The ground water quality test report is presented below as
Exhibit 4.6
Exhibit 4.6: Ground water quality test report
S. No. Parameters Unit NSDWQ Results Method Remarks
1 pH value ------- 6.5-8.5 8.31 pH meter OK
2
Total Dissolved
Solids
mg/l <1000 1960 APHA 2540 C HIGHER
3
Total suspended
Solids
mg/l
-------
< 5 Hach Method 8006 OK
4 Chloride mg/l <250 442.77 APHA 4500 Cl C HIGHER
4 Total Hardness mg/l <500 893.27 APHA 2340 C HIGHER
5 Flouride mg/l 0.1 0.66 Hach Method 8029 OK
6 Nitrate mg/l <50 0.30 Hach Method 8039 OK
7 Phosphorus mg/l <3 0.06 Hach Method 8048 OK
8 Turbidity NTU < 5 < 1 MercK Method (077) OK
9 Bicarbonate mg/l
-------
569.94 APHA 2320 B OK
NSDWQ: National Standards for Drinking water quality

4.8 AMBIENT AIR & NOISE QUALITY
According to world population review in 2014, Karachi has the 7th largest urban
agglomeration and the largest city in the Muslim world that suggests that Karachi
has experienced tremendous growth in the last two decades. Moreover, the
population of Bin Qasim Town is approximately 1,260,000 and Gadap Town is
approximately 579,128. Although Gadap Town is the largest town of Karachi in
terms of area but least populated and developed town, similarly Bin Qasim Town is
also least populated in comparison with other towns. Because of low population
both the towns exert less pressure onto the environment. Nominal air and noise
pollution was observed in Bin Qasim Town however Gadap Town’s environmental
conditions were observed to be better than other towns within the city. Air and
Noise sampling plan is presented below in Exhibit 4.7 and results in Exhibit 4.8
respectively
Exhibit 4.7: Air and Noise Sampling Plan

Exhibit 4.8: Air and Noise Quality Monitoring Results
Sampling
Location
Parameters Units
NEQS
Limits
Concentrations Method
1 Carbon monoxide (CO) mg/m3 10 02 EVM-7
Particulate Matter (PM10) µg/m3 150 62 EVM-7
Noise dB(A) 85 71 Noise Meter
4.9 EARTHQUAKES
The Indo-Australian plate upon which Pakistan, India and Nepal lie, is
continuously moving northward, colliding with and sub-ducting under the
Eurasian plate, thus forming the Himalayan mountains, and triggering
earthquakes in the process. The city of Karachi is located on the edge of the high
hazard zone II. Exhibits 4.9 shows seismic zoning map of Pakistan. The history
reveals that:
 The areas comprising Pakistan have suffered four major earthquakes in the
20th century including the great Quetta earthquake of 1935, the 1945
earthquake off the coast of Makran, the 1976 earthquake in the Northern
areas, and the October 2005 Kashmir earthquake. In between these major
events, the Northern areas and Kashmir have experienced many small
quakes with localized impact. No appreciable earthquakes have been
recorded in Karachi during the recent past. However, on September 24,
2013, a tremendous earthquake struck the Awaran District in the western
Balochistan Province of Pakistan. The quake's epicenter was near the
Awaran District, but others districts of Balochistan — Turbat, Panjgur,
Chaghai, Khuzdar and Gwadar were also affected. According to the reports,
tremors from the earthquake, which registered 7.8 on the Richter scale, were

also felt in Quetta, Hub, Kharan, JhalMagsi, Qalat, Sibi, Mastung,
Jafferabad and Karachi Pakistan and as far away as UAE.
 The recently developed (post October 2005 earthquake) seismic zone map of
Pakistan has divided the country into four seismic zones ranging in term of
major, moderate, minor and negligible zones with respect to ground
acceleration values. Under this zoning Karachi Division has been identified
on the edge of moderate to high hazard zone. This zone has minor to
moderate damaging affect.
 The proposed project is located in the seismic tectonic region of the Kirthar
Ranges, where a moderate level of seismic activity is believed to exist, but
large magnitude earthquakes are rare. Tectonic Plates/Seismic Zoning Map
of Pakistan can be seen in Exhibit 4.10.
Exhibit 4.9: Karachi lies on Seismic Zone II & III
Source: (NDRMFP, 2007)

Exhibit 4.10: Tectonics Plates/Seismic Zoning Map of Pakistan
4.9.1 Tsunamis
The coastal areas of Karachi might experience the effect of Tsunamis as the coast
line of Pakistan has had this natural hazard in the recent past. An earthquake of
magnitude 8.3 generated a destructive tsunami wave in the Northern Arabian Sea
and the Indian Ocean on 28th November, 1945, producing 12 m to15 m high sea
waves that killed at least 4,000 people in Pasni and adjoining areas. The tsunami
hit as far as Mumbai in India. Karachi, about 450 km from the epicenter,
experienced 2 m high sea waves which affected harbor facilities. Hence, the
occurrence of another tsunami in the future cannot be ruled out.The fact that cities
like Karachi lie close to potential epicentres for large submarine earthquakes,
demands attention for enhancement of local capacities for disaster risk reduction,
early warning and response in order to reduce losses from tsunami events.
Cyclones/storms Coastal belt of Pakistan (especially in Sindh) is highly vulnerable
to cyclones and associated storm surges. Fourteen cyclones were recorded between
1971 and 2001(NDRMFP, 2007).
4.9.2 Tropical Storms and Cyclones
Tropical cyclones also occur periodically in the coastal areas. Seldom these
cyclones have high intensities. A total of 14 cyclones approached the coastal areas

of Pakistan from 1971 to 2001. The cyclone of 1999 in Thatta and Badin districts
wiped out 73 settlements and killed 168 people and 11,000 cattle. Nearly 0.6
million people were affected. It destroyed 1800 small and big boats and partially
damaged 642 boats, causing a loss of Rs. 380 million. Losses to infrastructure were
estimated at Rs. 750 million. Climate change may increase the frequency and
intensity of storms and could cause changes in their tracks. Although the
frequency of cyclones along Pakistani coast is low, yet they cause considerable
damage, when they occur. Hence the possible occurrence of a future cyclone with
severe consequences is quite rare but cannot be ruled out (NDRMFP, 2007)

GEMSESIA960815KE Environmental Baseline: Biological Environment 5-1
The Environmental baseline and biological environment of the project area was
evaluated by both primary and secondary means. Surveys were conducted from
May to June 2015. Sampling locations for the identification of floral and faunal
assemblages were carefully selected so that the maximum number of species could
be observed and significant ecological baseline was generated for the project area.
The summary of biodiversity found during the site visit is as under, however
detailed sampling methodologies and findings are also incorporated as an essential
component of this chapter.
Exhibit 5.1: Summary of Biodiversity of the project area
Assemblages Number of Species
Flora 10
Avifauna 10
Mammalian Fauna 03
Herpito Fauna 02
5.1 HABITATION
In general, Karachi is categorized as an urban environment having environmental
conditions like a semi-arid desert. The natural faunal and floral species and
ecosystems are less significant and less in number because of extreme
environmental stressors out of which significant source of stress on natural
ecosystems includes environmental pollution associated with anthropogenic
activities thus escalating degradation of floral and faunal ecosystems. In addition to
that, it is important to note that the current project is located in close proximity of
Gadap Town hence, the concentration of human settlement is quite low within the
specific area in comparison with other parts of the city. This factor may reduce
anthropogenic environmental stressors therefore floral and faunal species may
flourish. However the fact is contradicting and during surveys and assessments it
was observed that biodiversity of the project area was insignificant due to
unavailability of fresh water resources. Neither species of flora and fauna was
threatened, vulnerable, critically endangered or near to extinction according to
IUCN red list or protected under CITES and or SIND WILDLIFE ORDINANCE etc.
ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE:
CHAPTER
5

5.2 FLORA OF THE PROJECT AREA
The project area sustains an arid environment. The
harsh climate, minimum rainfall, and poor soil
conditions limits the growth of floral species. In
addition to that, it is important to note that the
population of the area is dependent on livestock and
agricultural activities for their livelihood. Therefore
over grazing is another issue limiting the frequency
of floral species within the project area. The detailed
description, list of identified species and
methodology adopted for sampling are discussed in
details below.
5.2.1 List of identified floral species
5.2.1.1 Trees of the project area
S.
No
Family Plant Name Quantity
1 Capparidaceae Capparis decidua 40
2 Mimosaceae Prosopis juliflora 80
3 Mimosaceae Prosopis cineraria 20
4 Mimosaceae Parkinsonia aculata 08
5 Salvadoraceae Salvadora oleides 18
6 Salvadoraceae Salvadora persica 12
5.2.1.2 Shrubs of the project area
S.
No
1 Asclepidiaceae Calotropis procera 20
2 Asclepidiaceae Leptedenia
pyrotecnica
06
3 Rhamanaceae Ziziphus nummularia 04
Capparis decidua
Prosopis juliflora
Leptedenia pyrotecnica

5.2.1.3 Herbs of the project area
S.
No
1 Amranthaceae Aerva javanica 12
5.2.2 Sampling Methodology
In order to study the dominant vegetation/
floral species of the project area standard
quadrat sampling method was used in which
different sized quadrats by means of measuring
tape were made, the quadrat size ranged
between 2-20 meter.
Large shrubs & trees 20 m x 20 m
Small shrubs & Herbs 2 m x 2 m
5.2.2.1 Calculations:
Relative density D3 =
Total number of individual of a Sp. In all quadrats x100
Total number of individuals of all Sp. In all quadrats
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Capparis decidua
Prosopis juliflora
Prosopis cineraria
Parkinsonia aceulata
Salvadora oleides
Salvadora persica
Calotropis procera
Ziziphus nummularia
Aerva javanica
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
40/178×100
80/178×100
20/178×100
08/178×100
18/178×100
12/178×100
20/178x100
06/178x100
04/178x100
12/178x100
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
22.4%
44.9%
11.2%
4.49%
10.2%
6.74%
11.2
3.3
2.2
6.7
Figure 1: Quadrat sampling near the
project site
Aerva javanica

Relative cover C3 = Total cover (sq cm) of all plant of a Sp X 100
Total cover (sq cm) of plant of all Sp.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Capparis decidua
Prosopis juliflora
Prosopis cineraria
Salvadora oleides
Salvadora persica
Calotropis procera
Ziziphus nummularia
Aerva javanic
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
90/445×100
120/445×100
75/445×100
60/445×100
90/445×100
80/445×100
40/445x100
55/445x100
39/445x100
54/455x100
=
=
=
=
=
=
20.2%
26.9%
16.8%
13.4%
20.2%
17.8%
8.9%
12.3%
8.76%
12.1%
Frequency F1 = Number of quadrats of occurrence of a Sp.
Total number of quadrat used for sampling
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Capparis decidua
Prosopis juliflora
Prosopis cineraria
Salvadora oleides
Salvadora persica
Calotropis procera
Ziziphus nummularia
Aerva javanic
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
5/6×100
6/6×100
4/6×100
5/6×100
3/6×100
2/6×100
4/6x100
3/6x100
2/6x100
4/6x100
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
83.3%
100%
66.6%
83.3%
50%
33.3%
66.6%
50%
33.3%
66.6%
Relative Frequency
F3
= Frequency of a Sp X 100
Total Frequency of all Sp.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Capparis decidua
Prosopis juliflora
Prosopis cineraria
Salvadora oleides
Salvadora persica
Calotropis procera
Ziziphus nummularia
Aerva javanic
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
83×100/633
100×100/633
66×100/633
80×100/633
50×100/633
33×100/633
66×100/633
50×100/633
33×100/633
66×100/633
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
=
12.5%
15.7%
10.4%
12.6%
7.8%
5.2%
10.4%
7.8%
5.2%
10.4%

Esia of 220 k v transmission lines at port qasim

Esia of 220 k v transmission lines at port qasim

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